Fiction allows writers to explore beyond factual descriptions and delve into characters' motivations and actions.
Reading a wide range of books expands horizons and offers different perspectives and experiences.
Personal choice and exploration are crucial in finding books that resonate with individual readers, and non-English literature has untapped potential.
Deep dives
The value of fiction lies in its ability to go beyond actual events and imagination
Fiction allows writers to do amazing things by not being tied down to actual events. It allows the imagination to roam and enables writers to explore beyond the boundaries of factual descriptions. Fiction provides a different dimension compared to nonfiction, allowing readers to go deeper into understanding characters' motivations and reasons behind their actions.
The value of reading marginal works of fiction
While many books may not be personally satisfying, the act of reading a wide range of books helps in expanding horizons and gaining a better understanding of the world. Even if not every book brings immense value individually, reading a wide variety of books allows readers to discover different perspectives and experiences that can't be found through other means like talking to people or following news. Great fiction has the power to take readers much farther than any other medium.
Balancing time spent reading books with other experiences
The decision to read a long book or travel to new places is a matter of personal choice and preference. While one can argue that experiencing a new place brings more value, reading a book offers a different kind of experience that can be easily accessed. The time commitment and simplicity of reading a book make it an attractive option, especially when compared to the limitations and uncertainties of travel. Both options have their own merits and can offer valuable experiences.
The importance of considering personal preferences when choosing books
When it comes to selecting books, personal interests and tastes should be taken into consideration. There is no universal formula for making a better book choice, but browsing bookstores and seeking guidance from knowledgeable staff can be useful. Each bookstore and staff member can offer a unique perspective and help readers find books that align with their preferences. Personal choice and exploration are key to finding books that resonate with individual readers.
Underrated foreign language fiction and the need for more translations
Foreign language literature, particularly from regions like India and various other countries, is often underrated due to limited translations. Non-English literature has a lot to offer, but the lack of availability in English often goes unnoticed. Exploring the rich vernacular literature of different regions, especially through increased translation efforts, can unveil a wealth of diverse and valuable literary works.
Michael Orthofer, one of the world’s most prolific book reviewers, joins Tyler Cowen for a conversation on — what else? — books. Read to discover why Michael believes everyone should read more fiction, how we should choose books, why American popular literature is overrated, what he thinks about authors like Herman Melville, Fyoder Dostoevsky, Goethe, J.K. Rowling, Arno Schmidt, and many others, his recommendations for the best sites for readers, why studying literature at college was such a big disappointment, how much book covers matter, and why his opinion will never be the final word.
Check out the reader Q&A here and the Strand shopping video here.
